Arabs oppose mention of Israel at U.N.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency
December 13, 2005
Original Source: http://www.jta.org/page_view_breaking_story.asp?intid=435&ref=daily_briefing
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Arab states are trying to block the mention of Israel in a U.N. resolution on the problem of arable land turning into desert. 
The resolution, expected to be debated in the coming days, recognizes 2006 as a year devoted to examining deserts and the problem of desertification. 
A handful of member states, led by Syria and Iran, fought efforts to include mention of an upcoming Israeli conference on desertification, according to sources at Israel’s U.N. mission. An effort on desertification by Algeria similar to Israel’s is mentioned in the draft resolution. 
Israel’s U.N. mission has circulated an amendment to the measure that mentions the Jewish state. Several countries — notably the Latin Americans — said Israel should not be treated differently than other countries. 
The United States is also backing Israel’s wish to be included.